Help/Support Lines

189 - NATIONAL CENTER ON SHAKEN BABY SYNDROME
1-888-273-0071

2955 Harrison Blvd., Suite # 102 (Information and support service)
Ogden, UT 84403 Fax: (801) 627-3321

Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is the collection of signs and symptoms resulting from the shaking of an infant or small child. SBS occurs when a frustrated caregiver loses control and violently shakes a baby. In America every year an estimated 1,200 - 1,400 children are shaken for whom treatment is sought. Of these tiny victims, 25-30% die as a result of their injuries. The rest have lifelong complications which may include permanent disability such as blindness, severe brain damage, cerebral palsy, seizures, mental retardation, behavioural disorders and impaired motor and cognitive skills. It is likely that many more babies suffer from the effects of SBS yet no one knows because SBS victims rarely have any external evidence of trauma. 

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome (NCSBS) is the only worldwide organization that is dedicated solely to prevention of Shaken Baby Syndrome. The National Center has been providing leadership in the development of prevention programs, training courses and public education campaigns. 

In addition to training for professionals, the prevention and awareness programs also teach thousands of parents, students and caregivers throughout the world. NCSBS educational and prevention materials, including a variety of handouts, videos, DVD's, programs etc. are available online. 

Tips To Help Comfort a Crying Baby 

  • give the baby a warm bath
  • swaddle the baby in a soft blanket
  • have the baby listen to and watch running water
  • lay the baby tummy-down across your lap and gently pat its back
  • run a vacuum cleaner
  • give the baby something new to look at or hold
  • take the baby outside or for a walk in fresh air
  • take the baby for a ride in a car

Remember, these tips won't work every time, so find other ideas, too, and ask for help if you need it. 

Crying patterns of normal infants include: 

  • crying that tends to increase and peak around two-three months of age
  • crying that occurs more often in the evening
  • crying that can continue for long periods of time, averaging 30-40 minutes and even longer
  • crying that is intense, but does not mean that your infant is in pain. Babies often cry when they are not in pain, though it may "look" as if they are
  • crying that continues despite the soothing efforts of caregivers
  • intense crying periods that come and go, for no apparent reason

Remember, it doesn't mean there is anything wrong with you or your baby if your otherwise healthy baby cries a lot. 

Tips to calm yourself: 

  • do something to take a break from the sound
  • listen to music
  • run the shower or bath
  • exercise
  • call a friend or relative and talk about your frustrations 

Remember, there will be times that you get frustrated. If you feel yourself losing control, put the baby in a safe place and take a moment to deal with your own stress. No baby has ever died from crying, but they have died from being shaken. 

Additional helpful website: www.caringforkids.cps.ca  (Canadian Paediatric Society)

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